Domestic violence incidents reported to police have risen by a shocking 30 per cent in Hackney over the last year – making it the largest increase in London overall.
Figures revealed this week by Hackney Police show that 2,106 offences were committed during the period between April 2013 and April 2014 – a 30.2 per cent increase from the previous year which totalled 1617.
It’s significantly worse than boroughs such as Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham, Waltham Forest which saw 26.3 per cent, 24 per cent and 23.7 per cent increases respectively.
But police believe the increase is due to a greater number of people coming forward to report cases.
Det Insp Ian Fleming said: “These offences range from minor to the most serious. This increase in reporting is viewed as a positive factor as it provides evidence of improved confidence in the Metropolitan Police Service and I would like to keep the momentum moving forward by raising awareness of a further predicted increase in domestic abuse during the World Cup.”
Domestic violence incidents are expected to spike during the international sporting tournament, says Det Insp Fleming.
According to research carried out by the police, the number of attacks on days England lose or win a game and is forecast to increase by 27 per cent nationally.
Det Insp Fleming added: “The majority of incidents are alcohol related. Violence is generally alcohol-related. If things don’t work out in terms of the game, or someone’s team is not successful, then they are not in a good mood. People then tend to take that out on their partners.”
He said that Hackney Police were taking a number of precautions such as increasing the number of specialist investigators in community safety units; increasing the number of officers on duty at prevalent times during the World Cup such as during and after England matches; and resourcing a dedicated domestic abuse car during high profile matches which will respond to incidents and arrest offenders.
He added: “This significant major sporting event should not be dreaded by partners of violent individuals. I want to ensure that anyone suffering from abuse behind closed doors has the confidence to come forward, as, in conjunction with our partners, they will be provided with the support and protection they need to bring the cycle to an end.
“Whichever nation you support, we want everyone to enjoy this festival of football in safety and without fear of violence.”
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